Gel candle making can be made for fun or profit. They have become popular because they do not include any by-products of oil. They are often available at farmer's markets, flea markets, craft shows and swap meets as a handcrafted item made by someone who is creating a home-based business. This article will give you a good overview of what gel candle making products are needed, some safety precautions, but no specific recipes to make gel candles.

Made up of 95% mineral oil and making gel candles have become very popular among the "green crowd". The remainder is a polymer that comes in a powder form and when mixed with the oil, and heated, becomes thick. The polymer comes in 3 thicknesses; CLP (least thick), CMP (thicker), and CHP which is the thickest and most desirable if you want to imbed anything or use a fragrance.

Gel candle making supplies consist of a double boiler, a good thermometer (which tests the gel temperature to ensure it is ready) and a long spoon, which can be made of metal or plastic. Wooden spoons are not recommended, as they might form bubbles in the gel. Additionally, you will need some containers into which the mix can be poured.

To be safe, you must be sure to have heat resistant containers, often made of metal or glass. Moreover, you must have a fire extinguisher nearby which is good for chemicals. Fire extinguishers are available in two different kinds, and they're a good investment for a kitchen in any situation. You will also need to put on gloves, safety glasses, and an apron which is resistant to liquids and heat. If you take care with everything, these things probably won't be needed, but it's always best if you err on the side of caution.

You will more than likely want to add color and possibly fragrance to your original craft. The dye must be liquid and it is probably best that you buy the dye with your polymer. Clothing, food and soap dye will not work, could spoil the looks and might make it burn improperly. If you are using fragrance this too should be purchased from someone who has already tested the fragrance to mix with the gel mix.

Your original creation made of mineral oil will usually burn than tradition wax and with oil prices so high might be a great alternative to the wax we are accustomed to. They make great gifts for almost any occasion and for many people handcrafted are more desirable than something made overseas. Use caution in creating these marvelous long burning marvels and common sense. Remember do not imbed anything that would burn, this is common sense. Most of all have fun, try to be careful, and be sure to test and label all your handcrafted creation.

You can make gel candles for enjoyment or for profit. These candles have become popular lately because they burn cleaner and do not contain any oil by-products. Gel candle making supplies consist of a double boiler, a good thermometer (which tests the gel temperature to ensure it is ready) and a long spoon, which can be made of metal or plastic. Wooden spoons are not recommended. While making gel candles You need to ensure that you have heat resistant containers, probably made of glass or metal, for safety reasons. Additionally, have a fire extinguisher close at hand that can control a chemical fire.